Best Ways to Start a Debate on VersyTalks

Starting a debate does not always mean standing on a stage and delivering a formal opening statement. On modern debate platforms, a debate can begin in multiple ways: by creating a public discussion, joining an existing topic, initiating a one-on-one exchange, or sometimes simply writing a single, well-framed argument. Understanding these entry points is essential to starting debates effectively and engaging others from the very first interaction.

In this guide, we use VersyTalks, the fastest growing online debate platform to explain how to best start a debate. We break down the different ways to start a debate on VersyTalks, explains when each approach is appropriate, and shows how strong openings increase engagement, participation, and recognition.

1. Starting a Debate by Creating a Community Debate

One of the most direct ways to start a debate is by creating a Community Debate. These are open, user-created discussions that form the backbone of the platform.

When this is the best option

1. You want to introduce a new topic or question, without a judge's approval
2. You want multiple perspectives, not just one opponent
3. You are testing an idea or exploring a topic openly
4. You want your debate to be discoverable by the broader community

How it works

1. After logging in, you can create a Community Debate by:
2. Going to the Community Debates tab
3. Clicking the “+” icon
4. Writing a title, debate question, and short description
5. Adding relevant tags
6. Publishing the debate



Once published, the debate becomes immediately available for others to join. In many cases, the debate truly begins when the first argument is posted, whether by you or another participant.

Community Debates are ideal for learning how to start debates because they are flexible, low-pressure, and social.



2. Starting a Debate by Writing an Argument

A debate does not always start with a question. Sometimes, writing a strong argument is enough to start a debate.

When this works best

1. You want to respond to an existing debate prompt
2. You have a clear position or insight you want to put forward
3. You want to provoke thoughtful replies rather than control the topic

On VersyTalks, arguments are structured, reply-based, and votable once discussions form.

A single well-written argument can:

• Trigger counterarguments
• Spark extended discussion threads
• Attract votes and feedback
• Turn a quiet debate into an active one



In practice, many debates begin not with the creator, but with the first compelling argument.



3. Starting a Debate Through a 1-on-1 Exchange

For debaters looking for a more structured and competitive start, the 1-on-1 Arena offers a formal way to begin debating.

When to choose this format

• You want a clear opponent
• You prefer structured rounds (opening, rebuttal, closing)
• You want focused comparison of two positions
• You are training for competitive debate formats

In this format, the debate explicitly begins with an Opening Statement, followed by rebuttals and closing statements under clear rules and deadlines. This mirrors traditional competitive debating and is ideal for debaters who want discipline and clarity from the start.



Optional professional judging by experienced debate students and coaches is available for those seeking expert feedback.



4. Starting a Debate by Joining an Existing Discussion

Another often overlooked way to start a debate is to enter an ongoing one.

Why this still counts as “starting”

• You can redirect the debate by introducing a new angle
• You can challenge an assumption others missed
• You can elevate the discussion with evidence or framing



A strong first reply to an existing argument often reshapes the entire debate. In many cases, the most influential debaters are not the creators of the topic, but the ones who reframe it early.



Why a Strong Opening Still Matters



Regardless of how a debate begins, the first meaningful contribution sets the tone.

Debate educators consistently note that audiences and judges form impressions within seconds. On online platforms, the same principle applies: early arguments influence whether others engage, vote, or scroll past.

A strong opening:

1. Builds momentum instead of forcing you to defend later
2. Signals seriousness and credibility
3. Attracts higher-quality responses
4. Increases visibility and voting potential
5. This is especially important in competitive contexts such as Debater of the Month.



From Community Debate to Debater of the Month



You cannot directly create an official Debater of the Month debate. Instead, the path is organic.

1. High-quality Community Debates that generate meaningful participation may be marked as DotM-eligible. Once eligible:
2. Sending a high-quality debate via the contact page to the versytalks is a great way to get approval for a DotM Debate.
3. Contributions earn votes from the community
4. The top 20 debaters advance to a judging stage
5. Real debate coaches and educators evaluate clarity, logic, evidence, creativity, and respectful engagement
6. Winners receive prizes and platform recognition
7. This system ensures that debates rewarded at the highest level are not just popular, but well-reasoned and well-structured.



Best Practices for Starting Any Debate

1. No matter the format, effective debate openings tend to share the same principles:
2. Hook attention with a sharp question, scenario, or surprising insight
3. Define the scope so participants know what is being debated
4. State a clear position without hedging
5. Invite engagement, not monologues
6. Maintain respect, even when discussing polarizing topics
7. Strong debates are not about winning instantly; they are about creating conditions where others want to respond.



Conclusion

There is no single correct way to start a debate. On VersyTalks, debates can begin by creating a Community Debate, writing a single argument, entering a 1-on-1 exchange, or reframing an existing discussion. What matters most is not the format, but the clarity, intent, and quality of the opening contribution.

By choosing the right entry point and applying proven debate-opening techniques, you create discussions that attract participation, earn recognition, and demonstrate genuine debating skill coveted by debaters, whether casually or in official competition.